ON Wednesday, under the eager anticipation of fans and pundits alike, the Zimbabwe Netball Association (ZINA) stepped into the spotlight at the Cresta Oasis Hotel in Harare, revealing the Gems – the nation’s finest netball talent.
These exceptional women are primed and ready to blaze a trail at the upcoming World Cup in Cape Town, South Africa, carrying the dreams of a nation and the resolve to conquer.
ZINA named its choice of 15 polished gems, led by UK-based captain Felisitus Kwangwa and her deputy Claris Kwaramba. Other notable picks included sharp-shooters Joice Takaidza and Sharon Bwanali and stalwart defender Sharleen Makusha, who were part of Zimbabwe’s team in the previous World Cup in Liverpool, England.
Also on the list are the reserves: Ursula Ndlovu, Tafadzwa Mawango, and Paidamoyo Tinoza.
The Gems are slated to test their mettle against tough opposition in Pool A, comprising 2019 silver medalist Australia, Fiji, and Tonga. In their maiden World Cup appearance in Liverpool, the Gems clinched a respectable eighth place, a performance they will undoubtedly seek to build upon in the forthcoming tournament.
Speaking on the selection, ZINA President Leticia Chipandu stated, “This was a tough exercise for the selection panel and technical team. But we are confident we have chosen the best the country has to offer – a balance of experienced players and promising newcomers.”
“The girls are primed and ready for the World Cup,” she added, brimming with optimism. “It was not an easy selection as all the contenders gave their best. I assure the nation we will do Zimbabwe proud.”
Nedbank sponsors the Gems, and they are set to depart for South Africa on July 20. The World Cup will run from July 28 to August 6.
Chipandu extended her gratitude to all the supporters of the Gems, including the primary sponsor, Nedbank, and other notable contributors like Spar. “I also wish to acknowledge our Government, which has always backed us in our numerous assignments. The girls’ dreams wouldn’t have been realized without their support.”
Squad details are as follows:
GEMS WORLD CUP SQUAD:
Felisitus Kwangwa (Captain), Claris Kwaramba (VC), Joice Takaidza, Nalani Makunde, Tafadzwa Matura, Sharon Bwanali, Elizabeth Mushore, Progress Moyo, Sharleen Makusha, Beaula Hlungwani, Nicole Muzanenhamo, Assa Zimusi
RESERVES:
Ursula Ndlovu, Tafadzwa Mawango, Paidamoyo Tinoza.
TECHNICAL TEAM:
Agnes Chiroodza (Team Manager), Ropafadzo Mutsauki (Head Coach), Wisdom Shinya (1st Assistant Coach), Tapiwa Chirenda (2nd Assistant Coach), Nyembesi Kwava (Physiotherapist).
